Jetstar Asia March 16 by HGM

jetstar MAGAZINE

MARCH 2016

A LAUGH A MINUTE Get your giggle on at Kuala Lumpur’s comedy clubs

THRILLS & SPILLS Dare to experience the most extreme attractions in Asia

TOKYO TALES

Discover the city’s historic and vibrant entertainment district

JAPAN I MALAYSIA I THAILAND I MARCH 2016

From Bangkok to Phuket, celebrate Thai New Year like a local

MAGAZINE

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR LONG WEEKENDS IN SINGAPORE Whether your ideal weekend getaway is exploring the cityscape, sunbathing by the beach, or enjoying the beauty of Mother Nature, Singapore has it all! With many long weekends ahead in 2016, here are some exciting activities in the Lion City for your next weekend getaway!

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

SINGAPORE DESIGN WEEK

FASHION STEPS OUT

TULIPMANIA AT SENTOSA GARDENS BY THE BAY FUNFEST

SINGAPORE FOOD FESTIVAL

Local and international exhibitions, workshops and enough design candy to fill a Pinterest board, Singapore Design Week showcases innovative designs that have inspired the Singapore landscape. Follow one of the Design Trails to get a first-hand view of the displays.

Fashion Steps Out consists of a flurry of events including the Orchard Fashion Runway, where the popular shopping street is converted to a (very) long runway! See a look you like? All outfits are available for purchase in Orchard Road stores.

Step into a magical land as Gardens By The Bay presents its fourth annual edition of Tulipmania, where an incredible number of tulip varieties will be displayed in the Flower Dome for a limited period.

Have fun in the sun at Sentosa’s FUNFest, as it takes over Siloso Beach. A perfect event for the school holidays, kids will get to navigate their way through an inflatable maze and obstacle course while you cool off from the intense heat with a cool drink!

In Singapore, food is on the mind, all the time. The Singapore Food Festival throws local cuisine in the spotlight and encourages everyone to suspend all reservations and just dig in!

March 8 – 20, 2016 National Design Centre, 111 Middle Road designsingapore.org/SDW

March 25 – May 8, 2016 Various venues orchardroad.org/fso

April 8 – May 22, 2016 The Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay gardensbythebay.com.sg

May 28 – June 12, 2016 Siloso Beach Sentosa sentosa.com.sg

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

SINGAPORE NIGHT FESTIVAL See art in a whole new light at the ninth edition of the annual Singapore Night Festival. Singapore’s museums will remain open after hours while the streets of the art heritage district of Bras Basah-Bugis will be flooded with free events and installations from 7pm till late. Last 2 weekends in August Various venues nightfest.sg

OCTOBER

JUNE

JULY

July 15 – 31, 2016 Various venues singaporefoodfestival.com

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

2016 F1 S1NGAPORE BNP PARIBAS WTA AIRLINES SINGAPORE FINALS SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX PRESENTED BY SC GLOBAL

SINGAPORE BIENNALE

FESTIVE LIGHT UPS

Catch all the racing action at the hottest event of the year, the 2016 Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix! Watch your favourite headline acts at the concerts (past performers include Maroon 5, Pharrell Williams, and Bon Jovi), then keep the post-race celebrations alive at the after-parties.

A blockbuster contemporary art event, the Singapore Biennale returns for its fifth edition to present dynamic local, regional and international art practices. The last edition of this incredibly popular event saw a record-breaking number of visitors over a four-month period.

As Christmas arrives, Gardens by the Bay evolves into a Christmas Wonderland. Be dazzled by the Luminarie light sculptures and Christmas village. End the year with a bang at Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2017 with its epic fireworks or dance till the sun comes up at the epic Siloso Beach Party!

September 16 – 18, 2016 Marina Bay Street Circuit singaporegp.sg

Get your guide to every

The world’s top 8 female tennis players will battle it out at the Singapore Indoor Stadium for the season-ending title and prestigious Billie Jean King Trophy. Beyond the matches, attendees can also enjoy exciting offerings in the Fan Zone and scheduled player practice sessions. October 24, 2016 Singapore Indoor Stadium wtafinals.com

October 27, 2016 – February 26, 2017 Various venues singaporebiennale.org

Mid November 2016 – Early January 2017 Various venues

weekend in Singapore and great deals at YourSingapore.com

All information is correct at the time printed but may be subjected to change. STB is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of this publication and shall not be liable for any damage, loss, injury or inconvenience arising from or in connection with the content of this publication. Readers are encouraged to seek further clarification from the individual third parties referred to in this publication.

contents

march

MARCH 2016

44 Cycling gets extreme!

INSIDER 10 I IN PROFILE

62 I PHOTO ESSAY: TOKYO TALES

A chic traveller opens her bag

Step back in time at Toyko’s historic entertainment quarter

24 I INSTAGRAMABLE Snap enviable Insta travel shots at these picture-perfect spots in Yangon

12 I THE HOT LIST Events across the network

How to spend 24 hours in Palembang

14 I NEWS

30 I FOODIE FOCUS

17 I 5 OF THE BEST Tempt your tastebuds at the best gastro pubs in the Cambodian capital

27 I CITY GUIDE

Discover Darwin’s beautiful Cullen Bay

88 I THE LAST WORD Fashion Steps Out at Orchard

INSPIRE

Cover story 44 I SPLASH OUT AT SONGKRAN

Enjoy Geylang’s vegetarian delights

Celebrate Thai New Year – just like a local – in 2016

32 I TRADITION TALKS The art of Balinese healing

51 I KUALA LUMPUR’S COMEDY CLUBS

39 I SHOP IT

It’s a laugh-a-minute at these KL hotspots

The most stylish sunnies

20 I POSTCODE

23 I WHAT’S IN MY SUITCASE?

Melbourne café, St Ali, has opened in Jakarta – we chat with global owner Salvatore Malatesta

What’s hot and happening this month

41 I BEAUTY ON THE FLY Fresh fragrances for travel

56 I THRILL-SEEKING ASIA Test your nerves at 10 of the most extreme attractions

INFLIGHT 72 I Jetstar news 75 I Winners – #StarJourneys

76 I Flying Start 78 I Where we fly

Fresh flowers have

Amazing powers

“Top 10 Indoor Gardens of the World"

“World’s 10 most beautiful sky gardens"

— FoxNews.com

— CNN.com

Rediscover your

Sense of wonder

Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay – Featuring over 1 million plants from 5,000 species Showcasing the best of horticulture, sustainability and architectural design, Gardens by the Bay has blossomed into a must-see destination that’s among the world’s top 20 most checked-in places on Facebook. Journey across the Flower Dome to discover 9 different gardens from Africa, America, Asia, Australia and Europe. Marvel at the 35-metre tall indoor waterfall in Cloud Forest and be amazed as you stroll along the mist-filled Cloud Walk and Tree Top Walk. Come, be inspired by nature where wonder blooms.

@gardensbythebay gardensbythebay.com.sg 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

Welcome I From the CEO

EDITORIAL For all editorial enquiries, please email Jetstarasia@hardiegrant.com.au Publisher Christine Dixon Managing editor Chloe de Ridder Editor (Acting) Vanessa Mulquiney Art director Dan Morley Senior designer Sue Morony Sub Editors Nikki Wallman, Sarah Friggieri

Welcome aboard MARCH 2016

HARDIE GRANT MEDIA Managing Director Jeff Trounce

ADVERTISING +65 6337 6996 [Singapore] +852 2850 4017 [Hong Kong] or email joseph@asianimedia.com Asian Integrated Media Limited Managing Director Peter Jeffery Executive Director Brendan Inns Director of Advertising SEA Joseph Yap Director of Advertising SEA Soh Liang Liang Jetstar Asia magazine is published for Jetstar Asia Airways by Hardie Grant Media Level 7, 45 Jones Street, Ultimo, New South Wales, 2007 Australia +61 02 9857 3700 Website hardiegrant.com.au

Marching into the school holidays...

For reservations, call the 24-hour Jetstar contact centre below (please only call the number of the country you’re dialling from):

Singapore +65 6499 9702 Australia +61 (3) 9645 5999 / 131 538 China 4001 201 260 Hong Kong +852 3192 7451 Indonesia 001 8036 1691 Japan 0570 550 538 Malaysia 1800 813 090 Myanmar +95 9 42111 6662 Philippines 1800 1611 0280 Thailand 001 800 611 2957 Vietnam (Jetstar Paciﬁc Airlines) +84 839 550 550 All Other Countries +613 9645 5999

PHOTO LESTER LEDESMA

For hotel bookings and holiday packages call Jetstar Holidays on one of the above reservation numbers and follow the prompts, or visit jetstar.com/hotels

© Hardie Grant Media. All material in JETSTAR ASIA magazine is strictly copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. Every care has been taken in compiling the contents of this magazine, but we assume no responsiblity for the effects arising therefrom. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or Jetstar Asia Airways. All information is correct at press time. MCI (P) 061/11/2015 Jetstar Asia Magazine is printed by Times Printers Private Limited.

f you’re in Singapore these March school holidays and wondering what to do, check out our online deals for the month. If you’re in Palembang, let our travel consultants at our new Jetstar Travel Shop help you to decide where to go. Beyond Singapore, our consultants can advise you on how you can tap into the Jetstar network and connect to more places in Asia. Still undecided? Flip through our newly revamped magazine. We’re working hard to give you a fresh take on your favourite destinations and surprise you with new places to explore. We’ve scoured the world to deliver new local insights on where to go, what to see and what to do. Let us know what you think! Once you’ve decided on

where you’re off to with Jetstar, here’s a great travel tip from our customers: Many of them have shared on social media that buying additional baggage on our site has become so much easier! Not only can you buy checked baggage in increments of 5kg, you can do this on through the ‘Manage My Booking’ channel up until three hours before departure. For lastminute shoppers, you don’t need to think twice about that purchase. Just log in, buy what you need and let us help you to bring it home. Thank you for flying with Jetstar and we wish you a safe flight!

Barathan Pasupathi CEO, Jetstar Asia Airways

Welcome I Group CEO note

Transforming your digital experience

At Jetstar, we understand a great travel experience doesn’t begin when you enter the airport.

lot of time and effort goes into researching, planning and booking a holiday, and we’re working hard to make this part of your travel experience as hassle-free and enjoyable as it is in-flight. Later this month Australian customers logging on to Jetstar. com will notice a much simpler, insightful and enjoyable website designed to better reflect the needs of today’s traveller.

MARCH HIGHLIGHTS Here are just some of the things we love in this month’s issue – enjoy!

We’re also progressively introducing a brand new booking platform, which will offer an easier to use shopping cart style booking process as well as an express check-out option for those in a hurry. The launch of our new-look website in Australia follows successful rollouts in Singapore, New Zealand and Indonesia, where customer feedback has been really positive so far. We’ve also been making improvements to our smartphone app, which is now used by more than 1.5 million customers across our Asia Pacific network. Recently we introduced dynamic mobile boarding passes and we have plenty of great features to add to the mobile app this year. We know technology can help vastly improve your travel experience and we’ll keep looking for new ways to harness innovation to make flying easier than ever before. Safe travels,

Explore this historic area! Tokyo tales p62

Bali healers p32

Eating out in Phnom Penh

Gastro pubs p17 Jayne Hrdlicka Jetstar Group CEO

Help us share your Jetstar journey. FOLLOW: @jetst

arasia

Laughing in KL p51

From March 4–20 Sculpture by the Sea Cottesloe, one of the world’s largest free outdoor exhibitions, will be staged on the stunning Cottesloe Beach, Western Australia.

09 088

insider WHAT’S HOT?THAILAND 12 I CITY GUIDE 27 I FOOD57TREND 30 I68 SHOPPING 39 48 I MALAYSIA I JAPAN

Explore I HEALTH TREND

Salvatore Malatesta 10

Owner of celebrated café St Ali There’s a science to making the most delicious, aromatic cup of coffee – and Salvatore’s taking his secret formula all the way from Australia to Indonesia

ne of Melbourne’s most famed specialty coffee roasters, St Ali has recently joined forces with Common Grounds Roastery in Jakarta to open St Ali’s first overseas outlet. We had a cup of the good stuff with St Ali’s global owner Salvatore Malatesta.

How did the collaboration with Common Grounds Roastery come about? We have been touring baristas for four years, running masterclasses

at cultural events in different parts of the world; we’ve probably visited 13 different cities. Our local partners (Common Grounds) in Jakarta hosted us for a masterclass fortnight. It was sold out three months before we got there, and they said, “Hey, how do you feel about doing something with us here?”, and that’s how it came about. Common Grounds is a pretty cool coffee company/roastery in Indonesia [there are outlets in Jakarta, Surabaya and Bandung]

and its main barista, Yoshua Tanu, is sort of the Indonesian equivalent to Matt Perger [St Ali’s award-winning barista]. He won the Indonesian Barista championships and he’s about to represent Indonesia in Ireland in June. My team, Matt Perger and Ben Morrow, will be training him to give it a good shot at the title.

What’s on offer at St Ali Jakarta? It’s a 130-seater venue and it’s 100% like St Ali Melbourne – same menu, and we’ll even be sending

some Melbourne staff to Jakarta for a while.

You’ve been a key contributor to the thirdwave coffee movement, what’s it all about? We’ve been doing it for 11 years now, so it’s almost fourth wave! The third wave was a beautiful revolution; it’s about celebrating single-estate, single-origin coffee. It says coffee is like any other natural product – so if you have an Ethiopian coffee, you’re going to get citrus and lemons; if you have a Panama, you’ll get papaya and pineapple.

Insider I IN PROFILE

So what will the fourth wave entail? The fourth wave will focus on increasing the performance of brewing techniques and brewing instruments – coffee machines that become more precise. St Ali has an obsession with ‘coffee made perfect’ – that’s our internal tagline – and it’s not about guessing, it’s about using formulas and getting it all right.

What do you look for in a good barista? Tattoos and a beard [laughs]! No, I look for an analytical engineering mind, passion and a dedication to position. You’ve got to love coffee. We don’t do trials, because everyone would Top to bottom: St Ali also offers tasty eats; pouring a cup of the famous goodness

Every moment counts!

fail. There’s a science to our coffee-making. We have an eight-module program and not a lot of people can cope with it – the laborious dedication to following recipes the way you would if you were a pastry chef.

Far left: St Ali also offers tasty eats; and below: pouring a cup of the famous goodness

What’s the science behind a great coffee? Coffee is a fruit, so freshness is key. The quicker you can get the coffee bean from its origin to the roaster, then using it within that seven- to 10-day period, the better. Being in season is the other key. At the ‘making’ end, the milk must not have nasties in it, which also applies to the water – we use a reverse-osmosis system to make sure we

If you’re going to have an Ethiopian coffee, you’re going to get citrus and lemons

have the right mineral composition. The actual coffee, as boring as this sounds, is weighed in and weighed out; we need to make sure we get the recipe right for every cup.

What are your favourite Jakarta haunts? For food, Eastern & Oriental. For coffee, One Fifteenth Coffee.

Where in the world serves the best coffee? In my opinion, Melbourne is leading the coffee renaissance globally, and I don’t say that lightly. After Melbourne, Oslo and probably Chicago.

And soon Jakarta will be on that list?

INTERVIEW JOANNE BROOKFIELD PHOTOS MALT STUDIO

Oh, 100%! Jakarta will be number two.

DETAILS

Every moment counts!

St Ali, Jakarta Gedung Setiabudi 2 Ground Floor Suite 103A, JL HR Rasuna Said Kav. 62 Kuningan, Jakarta; stali.com.au/jakarta

Insider I EVENTS

The hot list

This month, Japan blooms with the scent and sight of cherry blossoms, Bali is abuzz with yogis and Jakarta grooves to the sound of jazz

Wonder Full @ Marina Bay Sands

Bali Spirit Festival

Nightly show, ongoing

Nourish your mind and body this month at the five-day, five-night Bali Spirit Festival, held in lush green Ubud. By day, participate in yoga workshops hosted by renowned yogis; by night, enjoy world music concerts.

Event Plaza at The Promenade; entry is free

12 12

Don’t miss this spectacular display of light and sound as, for 13 dazzling minutes, the entire circumference of Marina Bay promenade is electrified by lasers, water movements and graphics set to an original orchestral soundtrack. It’s a startling feat of cutting-edge technical artistry that taps into some very human emotions and will leave you spellbound. marinabaysands.com/ entertainment/wonderfull

March 29 – April 3, 2016 Tickets can be purchased online, priced from approximately S$220 for a single day pass

balispiritfestival.com

Hong Kong Arts Festival Until March 20, 2016 Tickets can be purchased online, prices vary

Ueno Sakura

Java Jazz Festival

From March 25, 2016

March 4 – 6, 2016

Ueno Park; entry is free

The Jakarta International Expo; tickets from S$31

Welcome spring’s arrival at Ueno Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) in Tokyo. Hundreds of pink trees will be in full bloom for just two short but beautiful weeks. The festival dates are dependent on the flowers’ bloom cycle. gotokyo.org/en/kanko/taito/ event/uenosakuramaturi.html

Jakarta will be buzzing, jiving and grooving during the 12th annual Java Jazz Festival. The line-up includes Indonesian and international acts, including best-selling jazz instrumentalist Chris Botti and Sting together on stage. javajazzfestival.com

Catch the second half of the vibrant Hong Kong Arts Festival, including opera, music, dance, theatre and circus. Not-to-be-missed highlights include the Mikhailovsky Ballet of St Petersburg’s performance of The Sleeping Beauty; the Cantonese opera Li Bai: The Immortal Poet; and Opus, a physical-theatre piece accompanied by the Debussy String Quartet. hk.artsfestival.org/en

On the radar

Be inspired for your next adventure – or weekend in Singapore – by everything new and noteworthy happening across the network this month

Vietnam’s flying high

Bali still among world’s best islands

A new bird garden has opened at Yang Bay, one of Vietnam’s ecotourism parks near Nha Trang. The garden boasts caves, lakes and more than 1,000 exotic bird species, including the golden-fronted leaf bird. The park covers more than 570 hectares of jungle.

Indonesia’s ‘Island of the Gods’ remains one of the hottest destinations in the world, taking out the silver medal in Travel + Leisure magazine’s World’s Best Awards. Bali was voted second only to the Galapagos Islands by readers in the islands category, with its ‘silver screen-worthy’ dreamscapes and many cultural attractions earning high praise.

14 14

Japan wins ‘most punctual’ Japan’s trains are known for their efficiency, and now the country’s airports are too. UK-based air-travel intelligence company OAG has released its global punctuality report, naming Osaka International the best small airport for on-time performance, and handing Tokyo Haneda first place for large airports.

New rooftop bar vibes in town

Railway reborn in Singapore

Singapore’s British-inspired gastropub, Oxwell & Co, has launched a new intimate rooftop bar with views over Club Street, Chinatown and beyond. An exclusive cocktail menu, featuring Hendrick’s Gin and using herbs from the Oxwell garden, is a drawcard. 5 Ann Siang Road, Chinatown; oxwellandco.com

Singapore’s abandoned Tanjong Pagar Railway Station is scheduled to get a facelift. Japanese architectural firm Nikken Sekkei and local landscape firm Tierra Design will transform parts of the railway into zones hosting everything from yoga classes and cafés to forest walks and urban farms.

Kobe’s new status Japan’s Kobe beef and the expensive Yubari melon have joined the ranks of Champagne and Gorgonzola, after joining the geographical indication (‘GI’) protection system, which identifies agricultural brands with production unique to their region. Kobe beef hails from a strain of Wagyu cattle raised on Honshu Island and Yubari melon comes from a town near Sapporo.

Insider I NEWS

COCKTAIL PICKS SAMURAI MULE

at The Bar at Waku Ghin, cocktail by Kazuhiro Chii. This Japanese-inspired take on the classic Moscow Mule features sake, fresh lime juice and ginger beer. 555

at Long Chim. A spicy, refreshing cocktail blend of Cocchi Americano, gin, fresh coriander, lemon and cucumber. FRENCH 57

Pick a space (and a cocktail!) to suit your taste

at 57-storey-high Flight Bar & Lounge. This aromatic drink has a gin-champagne base complemented with oriental highlights of acacia honey, yuzu and lemon. The bar will also offer a 25% discount on bottle service from 9pm until close on Tuesdays. SAKE CUCUMBER, APPLE MARTINI & WHITE SANGRIA

at Caffé B. You’ll also receive a 20% discount on selected bar bites.

PHOTOS JNTO, MARKLIN ANG, OXWELL & CO, MINISTRY OF CULTURE & TOURISM / REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA

HIS & HERS COSMOPOLITANS and SINGAPORE SLING

LET’S GET SOCIAL

It’s no secret that the luxury pull of Marina Bay Sands has attracted international stars to Singapore’s shores since opening in 2010. Now, six years on, it’s all about showcasing and celebrating the best local bartenders, as the hotel launches its ‘Raising The Bar’ campaign. So what’s the aim of the game? Making the city’s locals aware of the myriad cocktails on offer at the venue. “At Marina Bay Sands, each bar has its own unique character. It is a place where guests are able to experience different styles of bartending in one visit,” says Tamir Shanel,

Marina Bay Sands’ vice president of food and beverage. “With Raising The Bar, we hope to elevate the cocktail experience, showcasing the creativity of our talented mixologists.” Don’t miss Social Hour, from 6pm to 9pm every Tuesday, to enjoy tasty, half-price

signature cocktails at Marina Bay Sands’ bars and restaurants. No matter what your tipple, there’s a flavour to suit – and some cocktails start at just S$8. Don’t forget to Instagram your visit with #MBSSocialHour, or it didn’t happen!

at High Society. ‘His’ combines Blue Curacao and lychee juice with a hint of lime; ‘Hers’ offers the original mix of vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice and lime. You’ll also receive a 20% discount on karaage chicken bites and truffle aioli fries during Social Hour.

M A R L B O R O U G H C O L L E G E M A L AY S I A Explore I INTERVIEW

A Great British Education

Located in 90 acres of South-East Asia Pupils are taught a British curriculum from British educators who know the value of heritage and tradition. For over 170 years Marlborough College has been synonymous with a ﬁrst-class British education. Now in 90 acres of South-East Asia we

oﬀer our pupils the same opportunity to learn and to grow from the wisdom of those who have gone before them. We are a co-educational Preparatory and Senior School oﬀering an outstanding education for pupils aged 4-18.

Visit: w w w . m a r l b o r o u g h c o l l e g e . m y for details of our forthcoming Admissions Events Jakarta - 4 th March 2016 | Bali - 5 th March 2016 | Kuala Lumpur - 15 th March 2016

Insider I 5 OF THE BEST

OF THE BEST

Pub perfection Raise a toast and get ready to dig in – Phnom Penh’s gastro pubs are lifting the bar to a delicious new level No longer just serving standard pub grub, Phnom Penh’s pubs are reinventing themselves. Forget greasy fish and chips – these gastro pubs are dishing up gourmet delicacies fit for the most discerning palates. Even better, all dishes are complemented by an extensive selection of libations. Cheers!

WORDS ANITA SUREWICZ

1. DOORS doorspp.com Billing itself as a music and tapas bar, Doors mixes innovative dishes and cocktails with just the right dose of live entertainment. “We have Cambodian and international DJs and musicians perform almost every night of the week,” says Patricia Tan, vice president of hospitality outfit Cara Group. The menu, designed by Aitor Olabegoya (a former ‘Best Young Chef in Spain’ title-holder), features a tasty selection of Spanish tapas such as garlic clams and patatas bravas (cubes of potato in a spicy tomato sauce). “Our meals are cooked in the only Josper oven in Cambodia,” says Tan, adding that many top chefs are rediscovering the oven and grill

cooker, which was invented in Spain in the 1970s.

2. OSKAR BISTRO oskar-bistro.com/phnompenh With dedicated areas to dance, drink, eat and mingle, Oskar Bistro offers an all-round great night out. The venue, which opened to much fanfare in May last year, serves modern French and European dishes, boutique beers, chic cocktails and fine wines. You’ll also enjoy tunes played by some of the hottest DJs in the city. Oskar Bistro shares its name with its sister venue in Bangkok’s Wattana district, which is the home base of chef Julien Lavigne, who develops the menus at both venues. Lavigne has a history of collaborating with Michelin-star restaurant owners, so you know you’ll be eating a quality meal.

Hot tip Visit the themed gastro pub Puzzles, behind the Russian Embassy on Tonle Bassac, and be transported to another world.

Patrick Ferenchi, Oskar Bistro’s French managing partner, says some of the bistro’s most popular dishes include the duck parmentier and the braised lamb shank. “We also serve a wide variety of pizzas, salads and grilled skewers, as well as more than 50 different types of wine,” says Ferenchi.

The way anzza pi authentic be! should

Insider I 5 OF THE BEST

3. CHE CULO

checulocambodia.com Che Culo – Italian slang for ‘what luck!’ – has been simmering on Phnom Penh’s gastro-pub scene since December 2014. Set in the city’s Boeung Keng Kang 1 expat district, this hole-in-thewall bar and Mediterranean bistro is made for mingling. “Che Culo offers communal seating and a tapas shareplate menu,” says Nick Hattingh, the restaurant’s Australian general manager and co-owner. Anyone looking for a more intimate experience can park themselves at one of Che Culo’s cosy booths. There is also a small garden patio with bench-style seating. “The benefit of having a multipurpose venue is that you can have your guests in for dinner and wine, and then two hours later see them dancing next to their seats,” says Hattingh.

3 Chill out in the laidback surrounds of Che Culo

(house-smoked salmon). Foodies with a penchant for something a little different should sample the smokedsalmon cheesecake.

5. METRO AZURA

4. THE EXCHANGE theexchange-cambodia.com Located in a historic Frenchcolonial villa, The Exchange is a restaurant and bar that combines history, delicious cuisine and top-quality tipples. “Our steaks have always proven a winner,” says David Potter, The Exchange’s British director of sales and marketing. The lovingly restored building, which once housed the Service des Finances Extérieures (Foreign Trading House), is an attraction in itself. The breezy establishment boasts arched windows and doorways, exposed brick walls, a horseshoe bar and a garden dining area. The Exchange opened in early 2012, around the same time as the Cambodian stock exchange, so it’s not surprising that its menu is divided into sections such as Soaring Stocks (oven-roasted chicken breast), Preferred Shares (cheese board and breads) and Blackboard Trading

metrokh.com Metro Azura brought a touch of chic to Phnom Penh’s residential area of Toul Kork when it first opened its doors two years ago. Far from the madding crowd of the city centre, Metro Azura is a sophisticated bistro that serves Asian-style tapas, oysters and steaks, alongside cocktails – ask about their special concoctions. “Sometimes we customise our menu to cater to particular tastes,” says Nouth Sokha, Metro Azura’s operations manager. “For example, the Blue Metro is not even on our drinks menu but now we sell more of it than any other cocktail. “The best part of working at Metro Azura is that 90% of our guests are actually repeat customers.” Sokha says the most popular dish is beef with red ants. “It’s a typical Cambodian dish, and at Metro Azura it’s made with sliced sirloin and wok-fried red ants.”

Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Largest free-flight walk-in aviary

Come and discover this

exciting world of feathered friends and enthralling sights for yourself!

www.facebook.com/klbirdpark

www.klbirdpark.com For enquiries: KL

Bird Park

920, Jalan Cenderawasih, Taman Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: +603-2272 1010 Fax: +603-2273 5428 Email: info@klbirdpark.com Opening Hours: 9.00am to 6.00pm daily For reservations & enquiries:

Hornbill Restaurant @ KL Bird Park

Tel: +603-2693 8086 Fax: +603-2604 0620 Opening Hours: 9.00am to 8.00pm daily

4 3 7

2 5

The call of Cullen Bay Modern and just a little bit fancy, the sparkly enclave of Cullen Bay is Darwin’s ‘fun for the whole family’ destination. Head here for one-ofa-kind waterside experiences

Burnett House

In 1974, this beautiful example of colonial tropical architecture was damaged – but, unlike 80% of Darwin’s houses, not destroyed – by Cyclone Tracy. Thankfully it was restored and now a gold-coin donation will allow you to wander its lush gardens and interiors (the WWII museum upstairs is a must-see). On Sunday afternoons, local nannas serve high tea on the verandah. 4 Burnett Place, Larrakeyah, +61 8 8981 0165; nationaltrust.org.au/places/burnett-house

Lola’s Pergola

This enormous gastropub, run by two Northern Territory locals with equally enormous personalities, takes its design cues from amusement parks – think carousel horses, carnival rides and a huge pair of googly eyes watching over the happy punters. Order one of the amazing burgers and a cleansing ale while the kids busy themselves with books and rides. 48 Marina Blvd, Cullen Bay, +61 8 8941 5711; facebook.com/lolaspergola

Insider I POSTCODE

The affectionate teacup poodle oversees store proceedings from her miniature throne”

Cullen Bay Day Spa

Most of Darwin’s day spas have embraced the tropical theme with boundless enthusiasm – but not this slick sanctuary, which serves up clinician-grade facials, full-body wraps and a host of other indulgent treatments in a quiet, white space that’ll put minimalists at ease. How often does your eyebrow wax come with a side of water views? 1/64 Marina Blvd, Cullen Bay, +61 8 8941 1522; cullenbaydayspa.com.au 21

Sealink NT

Looking for your greatest daytrip yet? Ferries depart here daily for the culturally rich Tiwi Islands, where you can join one of Australia’s greatest fishing adventures or scoop up sought-after indigenous artworks (without the city tax). History buffs will salivate over the equally fascinating Mandorah, where remnants from WWII can be found. 5/57 Marina Blvd (office), Cullen Bay, +61 8 8981 2878; sealinknt.com.au

WORDS GEORGIA RICKARD PHOTOS LUKE MCCAULEY ILLUSTRATION GRACE LEE

Milly Molly Mandy

Inside the coolest kids’ store in the area, trendy clothes, witty childrens’ books and unique toys sit alongside a selection of vintage baby dresses and a whole section dedicated to cute kicks for busy little feet. Don’t forget to say hello to Daisy – the affectionate teacup poodle oversees store proceedings from her miniature throne. Shop 6/48 Marina Blvd, Cullen Bay, + 61 8 8942 1761; facebook.com/MillyMolly-Mandy-Darwin-861736297179853

La Beach

Stop looking: this is where you’ll find Darwin’s best beachfront dining. It may come wrapped in paper, but the fish is superb – and so are the views! Out front is a waterfront park locals visit to escape the crowds (it’s hidden from street view). So bring a picnic rug, order your fish ‘to go’ and toast your front-row seats at this spectacular sunset spot. 51 Marina Blvd, Cullen Bay, +61 8 8941 7400; facebook.com/pages/ La-Beach-Restaurant/161936460486227

Yots

Darwin has a sizeable Greek population, thanks largely to the local meatworks, which attracted migrants in the early 1900s. The meatworks has now gone, but the Greeks stayed – and so did their excellent culinary tastes. Pull up a chair at Yots for fresh Greek food right on the marina, and play ‘Which enormous holiday house would you like to live in?’ while you wait for your meal. 54 Marina Blvd, Cullen Bay, +61 8 8981 4433; yots.com.au

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Insider I WHAT’S IN MY SUITCASE?

My faithful Tod’s never get left behind!

Fedora and panama hats are a must for a beach holiday

Headphones are essential for chilling out

Travelling in style

PHOTO ROGER CHUA STYLING GRACE LIM

Singapore expat Honey Lee, the chic managing director of HEAT branding, is an avid traveller and loves jetting off in style. We delve into her carry-on

Honey Lee MANAGING DIRECTOR @ HEAT branding heatbranding.com

My case is bright pink for good reason: it’s easy to spot and I love all things fun, colourful and out of the ordinary! When I travel, whether it’s for work or play, I like to have my daily essentials with me. I’m an avid reader (on paper, not screen!), a long plane ride whizzes by if I’m reading. When I need a break, I swap my book for my headphones and listen to my favourite tunes (I’m

loving a mix of K-pop and Psy right now). My Canon camera gets a good workout and yes, I’m one of those travellers who still believes in the beauty of using an old fashioned camera rather than a phone. If I’m going on a beach holiday, I always pack my Gentle Monster and Linda Farrow sunnies, my Hat of Cain panama, Selima by V fedora, and colourful dresses that

can easily go from day to night with the addition of a blingy necklace. My favourite one (pictured) was bought at an On Pedder sale. Being a girly girl, I also love beauty products: Aesop body cream, kapok hand lotion, Korean lip balm by Son & Park, Etat Libre d’Orange perfume – among an entire bag full of others. I’m armed and prepared for anything, even on holiday!

INYA LAKE Inya Lake was the address of Aung San Suu Kyi’s home during her house arrest. Now it’s a popular recreation site for those who enjoy sailing and stand-up paddleboarding on its vast expanse. @simonbeauloye

YANGON’S TOP 10 INSTAGRAM HOTSPOTS

THE STRAND HOTEL The legendary Strand Hotel, built in 1901, displays Yangon’s colonial roots. Since its restoration and subsequent reopening in 1993, it has become a favourite for Friday-night drinks.

“This is Burma,” wrote Rudyard Kipling, “and it will be quite unlike any land you know about.” Indeed, from glimpses of Buddhist traditions to remnants of colonial history, the former capital, Yangon, will captivate you @travelstache

@wndrlustr

SHWEDAGON PAGODA

@_baybreeze_

This shimmering vision – thanks to tons of gold leaf adorning the 235-foot-high stupa – is believed to enshrine eight hairs from the Guatama Buddha. Visit in the morning for a moment of tranquillity.

CIRCLE LINE TRAIN Yangon’s Circle Line train (about three hours, roughly US$1/S$1.40) provides a journey through daily Burmese life – both inside and outside the carriage. Farmers along the route make for unique portraits, but if you’d prefer to avoid travelling on the wooden seats, the train’s exterior makes a beautiful image.

THANAKA

@jessie_vuu

Thanaka (a yellow paste made from ground bark) has been a visual feature of Myanmar’s culture for more than 2,000 years. It is said to be a sunscreen, skin cream and acne treatment all in one.

@simonbeauloye

Insider I INSTAGRAMABLE

SULE PAGODA The burnished gold stupa in the heart of the city is not just a religious site, it has also been an important space for political protest during events such as the 2007 Saffron Revolution.

YANGON’S MONKS

@ryanthecruz

Peaceful and burgundy-robed, Yangon’s monks bring a serene, spiritual presence to the city. To show respect, it’s best to ask permission before snapping away.

@j.jabsco

CHAUKHTATGYI PAYA

@leylakk

TAG US Don’t forget to tag us @jetstarasia #jetstarasia when you’re sharing your travel snaps.

@jillianswinford

WORDS ALESSANDRA BERGAMIN

The reclining Buddha of Chaukhtatgyi is a majestic 65m long. Take your picture from the vantage point of the statue’s intricately carved feet to add an interesting perspective to your shot.

BOGYOKE AUNG SAN MARKET Bogyoke Aung San Market (sometimes called Scott Market) boasts more than 2,000 shops, so there’s plenty of fodder for souvenirs and insta-snaps. Look for spicy mohinga (Burmese noodle soup) stands, hill-tribe crafts from the Chin state and piles of folded longyis.

BETEL QUIDS Betel quids – small parcels of areca nuts, lime paste, spices and tobacco wrapped in a betel leaf – are a ubiquitous sight in Yangon’s streets and markets. Ask a vendor for permission to take a photograph, or zoom in on an artful arrangement of the leaves for a new kind of #streetfood snap.

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Insider I CITY GUIDE

Immerse yourself in the action at these bustling markets

24 HOURS IN

PALEMBANG

WORDS AND PHOTOS NARINA EXELBY

Once an opulent trading hub for merchants of gold, silk and spices, the South Sumatran capital still has plenty of gems and charms to discover, if you know where to look

9AM EXPLORE CINDE MARKET

11AM VISIT ZAINAL SONGKET

Beginning your day at a local market is a great way to connect with a city. At Cinde market you’ll come into contact with the people who keep the city moving: from fishmongers to vegetable sellers and rickshaw riders to tailors. Stop at one of the café stalls for a rich, silky Sumatran coffee. Address: Jalan Surdiman, Bukit Kecil

Fascinated by fashion and fabric? You’re in the right place. Sumatra is famous for its intricately woven songket fabric, which usually takes months to create. Zainal Songket is a local shop that’s dressed well-known First Ladies and beauty queens – including the likes of Laura Bush and Dayana Mendoza – and here you’ll be able to buy exquisite songket that will surely become an heirloom. There’s also a museum that boasts fabrics that are more than a century old. Address: Jalan Ki Gede Ing Suro, no. 173 TIP Don’t be confused – this is not Museum Tekstil, which, although mentioned in some guidebooks, is now permanently closed.

1PM LUNCH AT PEMPEK LINCE Locals know this simple home restaurant as the very best place to order the city’s favourite dish: pempek (savoury fish cake). It’s not to be confused with Pempek Tince, which is over the road. Address: Jalan Mayor Ruslan/ Tugu Mulyo no. 2398 Contact: +62 812 7894 427; pempeklince.com The intricate weaving process at Zainal Songket

Insider I CITY GUIDE

3PM VISIT KEMARO ISLAND People visit Kemaro Island to see the eight-storey pagoda and the mythical ‘tree of love’, but it’s the peaceful atmosphere here that’s the real attraction – making it a good option for some quiet time out. Getting there: Head to the iconic Ampera Bridge, where you can get a ride with one of the waiting boats. It takes about 10 minutes.

The carnival atmosphere on the sidewalks between Benteng Fort and the Musi River

5PM SUNDOWNERS AT NOVOTEL

In the mood for a tipple? Head to the Novotel for a drink – with a view!

Palembang is a difficult city in which to find a cocktail (or a drink!). When you’re in the mood for a tipple, visit the four-star Novotel hotel. There’s a terrace bar here that overlooks the hotel’s pool, and it has a chilled yet sophisticated holiday vibe. Address: Jalan R Sukamto no. 8A Contact: +62 711 369 777; novotel.com

6.30PM RIVERSIDE FAIR Every evening, the riverside along Benteng Kuto Besak fort (not open to the public and known to locals simply as ‘Benteng’) erupts into a fair where kids’ rides, balloons, candy floss and musicians liven up the city. Take a ride in a pedal- and moped-powered VW Beetle, order some bakso or mie goreng, and enjoy the atmosphere. TIP Keep some small change handy to tip the roaming guitar players.

Travel info Jetstar flies thrice weekly from Singapore to Palembang. To book, visit JETSTAR.COM

7.30PM DINNER AT WARUNG TERAPUNG Guidebooks will tell you about a big boat on which to dine – but ignore that advice (it’s expensive and, some would say, overrated) and eat at Warung Terapung instead. It’s a lively little floating restaurant that serves a wide selection of local delicacies. Address: On the river, opposite Benteng fort (open 3.30pm to 9pm).

Artas 3K Robotic Hair Restoration Explore I CITY GUIDE

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RHAPSODY IN GREENS

Take your pick of these veggie delights

There’s nowhere in Singapore that caters to vegetarians quite like the neighbourhood of Geylang

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ingaporeans have always been connected to vegetarianism; almost 40% identify themselves as Buddhist or Hindu, according to the most recent Singapore Census (2010). And in recent times, the Lion City has experienced a rise in its offerings to non-meat and -fish eaters. “In the past few years, people have become more aware of the benefits of eating less meat and more vegetables,” says Andy Tan, manager at Southern Palace Vegetarian Restaurant (654 Geylang Road; +65 6846 1772), a no-frills selfservice outfit that serves meat-free snacks, zi char (Chinese homestyle dishes) and, according to Tan, a special “vegetarian Indian rojak that you won’t find anywhere else in Singapore”. “More and more non-vegetarian restaurants now have vegetarian options, sometimes entire pages of the menu,” says Dr George Jacobs, president of the Vegetarian Society Singapore. “What is particularly new is awareness of veganism,” he adds. “Five years ago, most people here didn’t even know what ‘vegan’ was.” Vegan food blogger and British expat Luke Otter agrees. He moved to Singapore from the United Kingdom in 2009 and runs hungryangmo.com, a website that’s dedicated to unearthing vegetarian and vegan delights across the island. “Veganism has grown exponentially, especially among the younger generation. Religion

Hawker stall Tian En offers an abundance of tasty veggie dishes

People have become more aware of the benefits of eating less meat and more vegetables...” is keeping vegetarianism alive as a relevant diet, but in terms of environmental impact reduction and animal cruelty and health, veganism is the future.” Knowledge equals power In a sense, the rise in vegetarian and vegan options mirrors the global interest in adopting a more plant-based diet. Food contamination scares, revelations of poor or inhumane industrial meat production and online information about the benefits of vegetarianism have made it a more popular option. ‘Meatless Monday’ started in the United States in 2003 as a way for people to begin the week on a

healthy note, while findings from multinational market research firm Mintel showed the percentage of global food and drink products launched in 2013 that claimed to be vegetarian was double that of products launched just four years earlier. Vegetarian hotspot The greatest concentration of Singapore’s vegetarian eateries is around Aljunied MRT Station in Geylang, a slowly gentrifying neighbourhood of lighting stores, fruit sellers and numerous Buddhist associations, such as Amitabha and Vimalakirti Buddhist centres. The oldest eatery, Kwan Inn Vegetarian Food (134 Geylang East Avenue 1, +65 6744 4424), a stall located next to Buddhist artefact shops, opened 30 years ago and is popular with locals and monks. The laksa is outstanding – springy noodles, crunchy bean sprouts and succulent tofu bathed in a spicy, fragrant coconut milk-based broth – and a steal at just S$2!

Insider I FOODIE FOCUS food shop vibe, with a small café onsite, and the clientele are mainly older Singaporeans who support the initiative and care about what they eat – in particular more natural, healthy foods. In fact, local Ivy Lim travels 10km from her home in Hougang four times a week to eat here. “I have been coming for two years and love the food – it’s so healthy. I always get the curry and nasi lemak.”

Kwan Inn’s laksa boasts a spicy and fragrant broth

More veggie eateries These vegetarian restaurants outside of Geylang are well worth a visit... HIP VEGAN EATS Afterglow 24 Keong Saik Road, +65 6224 8921 afterglow.sg JAPANESE-EUROPEAN INFLUENCES Joie by Dozo #12-01 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road, +65 6838 6966 joierestaurant.com.sg INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED VEGAN Loving Hut 229 Joo Chiat Road, +65 6348 6318 lovinghut.com.sg

WORDS AND PHOTOS SANJAY SURANA

The proud owner of Kwan Inn Choo Hong Eng (right) with one of her staff

Nearby, Yes Natural (57 Lor 27 Geylang, +65 6741 1580; yesnatural.sg) has opened a health-food store, bakery and restaurant in the past decade; among the favourites on offer is the pocket salad with alfalfa, cucumber, tomato and vegetarian ham. Five minutes north of the station on foot, the vegan Eco Harmony Café (#01-205, 106 Aljunied Crescent, +65 6749 8509; eco-harmony.net/cafe) is part of the Kampung Senang Charity & Education Foundation (kg-senang. org.sg). It has a community health-

Just a short walk away… Other vegetarian eateries within walking distance of Aljunied MRT Station include Rice House (129 Geylang East Avenue 1, +65 6747 3739); Ci Hang (72 Lor 25A Geylang, +65 6747 1229) – try the green curry served only on Mondays and Tuesdays; Tian En Vegetarian (88 Lor 25A Geylang, +65 9766 8199), serving a classic assortment of vegetables and tofu, and Vegan Paradise (34 Aljunied Road), which offers muchtalked-about kimchi bento boxes. Vegetarianism in Geylang is alive, well – and clearly here to stay.

MEDITERRANEAN Original Sin #01-62 Holland Village, Chip Bee Gardens, 43 Jalan Merah Saga, +65 6475 5605 originalsin.com.sg MIDDLE-EASTERN Pita Pan L1-87, Bay Level, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bay Avenue, +65 6688 7450 pitapan.com.sg BURGERS VeganBurg 44 Jalan Eunos, +65 6844 6868 veganburg.com THAI-PERANAKAN Whole Earth 76 Peck Seah Street, +65 6323 3308 wholeearth.com.sg

Ketut Arsana has been healing for more than 40 years

THE MEDICINE MEN OF BALI Long before Eat Pray Love and the hordes of tourists that followed, Balinese locals sought the healing touch of traditional balians

alians, or traditional Balinese healers, have been using ancient teachings, herbal potions and massage to treat patients for hundreds of years. Known in Bali for their ability to treat a variety of conditions – anxiety, depression, chronic back and knee pain, and joint problems, to name a few – and even remove spells (if you believe in that sort of thing), balians are the first port of call for many Balinese people.

Such is their popularity, it’s estimated there is approximately one balian for every 550 people on the island. The crucial role of balians “Balians play a central role in community health on the island,” says Ketut Arsana, an Ubud-based balian who has been working as a healer for more than 40 years. “Most banjars, or villages, have a balian, and many Balinese rely on them for treatment and guidance.” Unlike in Western countries,

where medicine is a chosen profession, the Balinese believe balians are called to their duty by a higher power. Ketut says he already knew his calling at the tender age of eight. “I started by healing members of my family, and gradually extended this to my neighbours and eventually everybody who heard about me and asked for treatment,” says the 53-year-old, who practises out of the Ubud Bodyworks Centre. Balians are said to receive their healing gifts from the spirits, and

Insider I TRADITION TALKS

WORDS ANITA SUREWICZ PHOTOS BODYWORDS, ALAMY

I realised that healing has always been my gift and that I was always meant to follow this path.”

Clockwise from top: Balian Ketut Arsana in session; Ketut Arsana; a balian’s hands can help to heal the body and spirit

the tradition is usually passed from generation to generation. “My grandfather and ancestors were also healers. The lineage normally skips a generation and is passed down the male line,” says Ketut. A balian’s responsibility is first and foremost to their community. Unfortunately, since the release of Elizabeth Gilbert’s novel Eat Pray Love (and the 2010 film adaptation), many healers have been deluged with tourists, impeding their ability to fulfil this duty. Ketut Liyer, a balian who features in both the book and film, has reportedly had busloads of tourists turn up at his family compound seeking enlightenment. A growing travel trend While many balians are weary of providing information about themselves to tourists (too many curious visitors can divert the balian’s attention from those in real need of help), others, such as Chyrillus Ketut Samiratha (also known as Sami), are happy to accommodate Western visitors. Sami, who practises out of the Bali Chy Healing centre in Canggu, says part of his mission as a balian is to make the practice of traditional Balinese medicine more accessible to people visiting the island. The 51-year-old, who is a fifth-generation balian and an Ayurvedic doctor, first heard the calling at the age of 13. “There was a time when I was confused. I was asking myself: ‘Who am I? What am I? How can I become a stronger person?’ Then I realised that healing has always been my gift and that I was always meant to follow this path,” says Sami. Just like conventional medical doctors, many balians specialise in a specific type of healing, whether it’s treating emotional disorders, curing joint problems, removing

Insider I TRADITION TALKS

The etiquette when you visit a balian

A basket of offerings given to thank a balian

black magic or channelling ancestors. They also use different methods of healing, with perhaps the most well-known being balian usada, who use massage and traditional herbal formulas, and balian taksu, who communicate with the spirits (the conditions treated by balian taksu are generally not physical). Back to balance Regardless of what they specialise in, all balians work to re-establish balance between the body, mind and spirit. Central to this is the Balinese belief that the tangible (sekala) and the intangible (niskala) worlds are interconnected, and both need to be addressed when treating an ailment. As with other balians, Sami’s holistic healing involves re-establishing balance. “Regardless of the condition, I usually start with an intuitive and diagnostic massage,” says Sami. “Actually, I usually don’t ask about the problem and [instead] try to read what the body is telling me. Depending on what I discover, my treatments [about 90 minutes long] can also include energy cleansing and providing spiritual guidance,” he says.

Seeing a balian is very different to having a consultation with a regular doctor. Balians are considered instruments of a higher power and, as such, a visit should not be taken lightly. Here are some simple rules to follow when visiting a traditional healer in Bali. MAKE AN APPOINTMENT A balian can never turn anybody away, but casual visitors might distract them from treating somebody with a serious illness. COVER UP It’s a good idea to cover your legs and shoulders. Depending on the balian, visitors may also need to wear a sarong as a sign of respect. TRANSLATOR Many balians don’t speak English, so it’s best to organise a translator. PAYMENT Never hand money directly to a balian. Place it in a designated spot (a box) or on a table at the end of the consultation. Some balians give treatments by donation and others have set fees, so be sure to ask. BE MINDFUL Make sure you don’t point the soles of your feet at the healer, and never touch their head or face.

Likewise, Ketut says his approach focuses on the balancing of energy as well as the healing of spiritual issues and negative energy. “Normally [the types of problems we treat] have roots in emotions – regardless of whether these are connected to magic or not,” Ketut says, referring to the Balinese practise of healing through the removal of bad spells. “A lot of people get stuck on a certain emotion and can’t move on. This can have physical manifestations.” Medical needs While Ketut and Sami wholly believe in the power of alternative healing and natural therapies, they both agree that in certain circumstances a good balian should refer their patients to a medical doctor. “Balians need to have a lot of knowledge about modern medicine, but they are still unable to fix some problems,” says Ketut. “This is when Western medicine comes in. Sometimes a mixture of traditional and modern medicine works best.” Sami also sometimes finds it necessary to refer his patients to a medical doctor. “Sometimes we still have to depend on doctors. For example, if someone has a broken bone, I am not able to fix it. My patients’ welfare is my main priority.”

Interested in visiting a balian? If you’re interested in vising a balian, it’s best to seek advice from the staff at your hotel. Some upmarket hotels, such as the Four Seasons ( fourseasons.com/sayan/spa/balinese_ healer), will organise visits to balians. There are also guides who specialise in organising sessions with balians. They accompany you and can translate if necessary (balihealers. com; visithealerinbali.com).

WORKING TOGETHER TO PROTECT OUR NATURAL WORLD

Geia 5 ultimateears.com/en-au

What to pack? The key to a stress-free holiday is good organisation. Follow our tips for the perfect pack, and you’ll never be caught without travel essentials again.

e’ve all done it. Arriving at your destination only to find you’ve left some key essential at home is a classic rookie traveller mistake. Avoid that moment and enjoy your holiday with our travel packing tips. Start by ensuring your documents are in order. Make a digital and hard copy of your travel insurance policy, passport and any bookings and stash them somewhere secure. A travel medical kit will be a life saver if you find yourself miles from a pharmacy and in need of a bandaid or painkillers. Make a mental, or real, checklist of the basics – underwear, toothbrush, camera charger - and go through it before and after you pack. It might help you avoid an emergency shopping trip and loads of travel stress down the line. Wherever you travel, travel safe. For a travel insurance quote, select insurance with your booking at jetstar.com or add insurance through Manage Booking.

I always pack moisturiser as planes can be drying for my skin, a fab pair of sunglasses (the perfect accessory in any climate), a good book and some comfy flats. A set of headphones is a great way to avoid a noisy flight neighbour! E! NEWS ASIA PRESENTER, YVETTE KING

When I go on holiday with my children, it’s usually activity filled – this means packing sunscreen, active wear, shades and caps. For relaxation, I take my MacBook Pro as it contains books, music and movies.” AMAZING RACE ASIA AND AMAZING RACE CHINA PRESENTER, ALLAN WU

Suitcase: 1. American Tourister Bon Air 55cm, $219 2. Healthy Care Paw Paw Balm, $3.69, and Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Ointment, $6.69 3. Marmot Mitchell Shirt in Crystal Blue, $ 79.95 4. UE Boom 2, $249 5. Poler Dopp Kit, $54.99 6. IceBreaker Crush Pants in Metro, $149.95 7. Nikon Coolpix AW130 Digital Camera, $369 8. Sony Wireless Bluetooth NFC noise cancelling headphones, $279.95 9. IceBreaker Crush LS Scoop in Fathom, $119.95 10. Local Supply Freeway:Atlantic sunglasses, $79.95 11. Powerbank Charging Station, $20 12. Gabee passport holder, $39.95 13. Pashmina Passion lime/yellow shawl, $200

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Insider I ADVERTISER PROMOTION

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Insider I SHOP IT

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Insider I BEAUTY ON THE FLY

CALVIN KLEIN ETERNITY NOW, S$92

Scents for your suitcase

This fresh fragrance comes 25 years after the original Eternity. Like a fruit salad in a bottle, it houses notes of nectarine, lychee and quince along with a floral bouquet of peony, peach blossoms and neroli petals.

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A light, airy scent

Eau so fresh: here are some of the best fragrances for when you’re travelling

WORDS AIMÉE LEABON ILLUSTRATION GRACE LEE

CHLOE EDT, S$82

Perfume, like travel, can transport you to your favourite place – or to exotic locales you’ve only dreamed of. Indeed, a quick spritz can take you on a sensorial journey to a beach in Barbados or an orange orchard in Sicily – not to mention the ability of a scent to evoke emotions. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, fragrance is a finishing touch for your getting-ready routine. With the plethora of perfumes available, deciding which scent to stash in your suitcase can cause a packing conundrum – and we all know packing can be hard enough as it is! To help you whittle down your selections, take stock of the following tips: If travelling to a tropical or hot climate, opt for light florals and

zesty citrus notes (these also pair perfectly with flowing maxi dresses and embellished sandals). High temperatures can affect the way perfume molecules evaporate, making your heady scent more polarising than a political debate. In cooler climates, spritz more pungent perfumes containing woody, musky or oriental notes. A drop in the mercury and heavier clothing calls for stronger scents. To save space in your suitcase, consider investing in a rollerball applicator or solid perfume compact. Both allow for precise application and the oilbased formulas melt into skin – not to mention fitting neatly into your handbag once you’ve reached your destination.

If you’re a fan of florals, you’ll love this scent. White roses, magnolia and gardenia mix with musk and bergamot to create a lighter, airier version of the more potent Eau De Parfum introduced in 2008.

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BOTTEGA VENETA SIGNATURE EDP TRAVEL SPRAY, S$82 This travel-sized bottle was designed with your sojourn in mind and contains a blend of leather and floral notes – perfect for day-to-night wear. The delicate woven cord is a nod to the fashion house’s iconic leather goods range.

Available at Bottega Veneta counters

BYREDO PERFUMED OIL ROLL-ON IN GYPSY WATER, S$87 Woody but not overpowering, this best-selling scent was inspired by smoky campfires and pine rainforests. Bergamot, amber, vanilla and musk make an exotic combination while the rollerball applicator ensures effortless touch-ups.

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Namiki Yabu Soba’s chefs hand-make soba noodles – Asakusa photo essay, p62.

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CELEBRATE I SONGKRAN

SPLASH OUT AT SONGKRAN Everything you need to know about celebrating Thai New Year – just like a local – in 2016

WORDS ABENA BAILEY

CELEBRATE I SONGKRAN

Impressive sand pagodas are on display for just 24 hours, as part of the festival

ome April – one of the most important months on the Thai calendar – the country will explode with traditional celebrations, parties and, of course, the biggest, most culturally significant water fight on earth.

Out with the old, in with the new

Songkran (April 13 to 15) is closer in date to India’s Holi Festival, China’s Qingming Festival and Christians’ Easter celebrations, but it’s widely acknowledged as the Thai New Year (despite the fact that, since 1940, the country has also celebrated traditional New Year on January 1). The throwing of water is perhaps the most well-known aspect of the national holiday. This ritual dates back to when water was used to wash Buddha statues for good karma; this ‘blessed’ water was then used by people to cleanse each other as it was seen to bring good luck. These days, Songkran, both physically and spiritually, is seen as a national ‘spring clean’: Thai people throw out old or useless belongings, clean their houses, visit temples and families, and use water – whether from a hose, water gun or post-Buddha washing – as a way of cleansing. Thai people also take to the streets to soak passers-by with water, sending them luck for the year ahead. If you’re in Thailand for Songkran, you may wish to tap into the more spiritual side of the celebrations and experience the calmer, cleansing, cultural rituals; or you might be keen to get involved in the vibrant, water-soaked, street-party action. Of course, you could do both – here's how to make the most of it all, local style!

Dip into the culture

In the beach village of Bang Saen (easily reachable by mini-van from outside Bangkok’s Victory Monument BTS Station or Eastern Bus Terminal), you’ll find the Wan Lai Songkran Festival, which takes place a little later than most celebrations, on April 16 and 17. Here, residents gather for family reunions, to wash Buddha images, light incense and offer alms to the monks. Down at the beach, you’ll find hundreds of intricately carved, towering pagodas, all handsculpted by entrants to the annual sand pagoda-building competition, held as part of local Songkran celebrations. Check ahead of time for the exact date – these painstakingly crafted sculptures are displayed for one day only. Celebrating Songkran here is a little less chaotic than where the main water fights take place, but it’s by no means subdued. Colombian expat Camilo Diaz, 38, has been living in Thailand for 13 years and has experienced the vibe away from tourists on the ThaiMyanmar border, in his previous home in the Ratchaburi province. When it comes to local etiquette, his tip is to “throw water at people who do it to you and, if you can, celebrate with your Thai friends –

ULTIMATE SURVIVAL KIT For a stress-free Songkran, follow these pointers on what to take with you: Carry your valuables in a plastic pouch, to keep them handy and dry. Buy a cheap smartphone (about 1,000 baht/S$40 from MBK Center) to stay in touch with friends and take photos. Tie sunglasses around your neck to protect your eyes. Visitors must carry passports – a photocopy is an acceptable option. Avoid getting dry or burnt skin by packing a pocket-size moisturising sun lotion.

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they will show you the way”. Bangkok’s Pandan Tour company offers visitors another way to get a unique glimpse into the spiritual side of Songkran. You’ll board a vintage boat and be guided through the old part of the city before witnessing (and taking part in) the traditional Songkran rituals of bathing the Buddha image and pouring water over people’s hands at Mouth of the Canal Temple and Forest Temple. Cleansing the Buddha is a mark of respect, as is pouring fragrant water over elders’ palms – a gesture

FESTIVAL HACKS

•

Pouring water over elders’ palms … is a gesture of humility and gratitude”

of humility and gratitude. If culture and relaxation appeal, another area with a slightly calmer and more religious atmosphere is Sangkhlaburi, easily reachable by bus from Mo Chit BTS Station in Bangkok. Visit Wat Wang Wiwekaram, where – from April 13 to 18 – you will be able to see the Mon community (Thai-Burmese people) observe their unique religious rituals. Here, locals carry food on their heads to give to monks at the temple, where they take part in a purifying ceremony – and it’s quite a sight. First the men create a human bridge for the monks to walk over on their way to the ceremony. During the ritual, the Buddha statue is cleansed using kilometres-long bamboo pipes and then the men carry the monks back to their homes.

Make a splash on the party circuit

Once you’ve had your cultural fix, it’s party time! Bangkok and Phuket are two of the best places to hit the streets with your water gun. In Bangkok, head to Khao San Road, the Royal City Avenue (RCA) clubbing scene and Silom Road. Music executive Tina Blackmon, 35, from Bangkok, is a Songkran veteran with a few tips and tricks for first-time festival-goers. “If you want to survive from day to

Arrive a few days before Songkran starts, or before 9am, when the water fight begins; you don’t want to be wheeling your suitcase through the line of fire. Ponchos and umbrellas tend to make you more of a target, because some people think it’s okay to soak someone who is covered. Wear a bathing suit under clothes that you don’t mind getting ruined. Avoid wearing colours that turn transparent or seep dye when wet. Girls should wear jelly shoes and men should wear old canvas plimsolls, as flip-flops can fall off easily in water – and you don’t want to go around barefoot! Buy your water gun early – prices increase as the festival nears. Be mindful not to spray water directly into people’s eyes, and don’t spray the elderly, monks or babies. Book a hotel room in the thick of the action so you can easily seek refuge, change clothes and freshen up whenever you need to. Take a nap during the day so you are fresh for the night-time entertainment. To enjoy restaurants, beauty salons and cinemas without having to step foot outside, book a hotel that’s attached to a mall. Centara Grand at Central Plaza in Ladprao, Centara Grand at CentralWorld and Grande Centre Point in Sukhumvit are all perfect – book now!

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night, the trick is to have a change of clothes at a nearby hotel, wear waterproof make-up, preserve your energy and stay energised with food and drink,” she says. “I usually head to Silom or Khao San Road with a group of friends and set up camp at a side-street bar off the main thoroughfare so I can dip in and out of the action. Soi Convent and Suan Phlu, in Silom, are great for this, and I love The Swiss Lodge because it usually has a buffet and places to chill out. Bombay Blues, on Soi Rambutri, is a good place too, as it has a water sprinkler and fantastic Indian food.” In Phuket, the place to be is Soi Bangla, in Patong Beach, where you can enjoy both the traditional side of the festival (don’t miss the procession of the Phra Buddha Sihing image) and the lighter side with the Miss Songkran beauty pageant, art and cultural exhibitions and, of course, plenty of water-splashing along Patong Beach. If you’re after some all-day water action, Patong, Kata and Karon beaches are the places to be. By nightfall, Thanon Bangla is where to find a full-on water fight. Bar-hopping in this area is a great way to soak up the fun at a variety of venues. The larger clubs usually go all out with a big party night featuring headline DJs. Check out Seduction Nightclub on the eastern end of Thanon Bangla – it has hosted the likes of Skrillex and Calvin Harris and has five rooms, including an open-air rooftop terrace. Expect pumping house and RnB tunes. If a few light bites and chilling by the pool is more your style, head to Xana Beach Club on Bang Tao Beach, a well-known spot for its Songkran soirées. Music producer and regular Songkran party-goer Sean Carter, from the USA, is looking forward to launching his Undaworld Studios EP at what will be his ninth

PHOTOS ALAMY, GETTY, SHUTTERSTOCK

CELEBRATE I SONGKRAN

Songkran this year (keep an eye on the Unda Facebook page for more details). “My all-time best Songkran was when my mates and I travelled from Sukhumvit to Siam to Silom to Khao San Road by tuk tuk,” says Carter. “We were water-fighting the whole ride. About seven of us split 1,500 Baht (SG$60) on transport. It’s cheaper to hire a pick-up truck. One year we spent 1,000 Baht (S$40) on one for the day. We bought a garbage bin, filled it with water and partied on the back of the truck. There were hundreds of other pick-up trucks carrying people, all water-fighting. We

jumped from truck to truck – music blasted and people danced.” Bangkok’s streets will be packed with revellers around 10am, and get increasingly crowded as families spill out of the temples and onto the streets for the processions and water fights. Silom Road and Khao San Road are not for the faint-hearted, as that’s where the most intense antics go on all day and into the night – so bear this in mind when it comes to your travel plans. Wherever you decide to settle in, you can rest assured you’ll meet locals more than willing to take you under their (soaked) wing.

For Bangkok canal tours, visit thaicanaltour.com. Buses travel to Bang Saen along the Eastern Seaboard from the Eastern Bus Terminal, in the Ekkamai area of Bangkok. Airport buses and taxis transfer from Phuket International Airport to Kuraburi Pier, where boats sail to Koh Phra Thong.

Travel info Jetstar flies up to five times daily from Singapore to Bangkok and three times daily from Singapore to Phuket. To book, visit JETSTAR.COM

KUALA LUMPUR I UNPLUGGED

It’s raw, unfiltered and will make you forget your troubles – Kuala Lumpur’s booming live-comedy scene delivers laughs almost every night of the week. Prepare to get your giggle on WORDS BELINDA KERSLAKE

ROLLING IN THE

AISLES ai

I 52

n my first experience of Kuala Lumpur (KL) comedy, the audience howled with delight as Rizal van Geyzel and Jason Leong blew apart taboo after taboo. As an expat new to KL, I was worried they may leave in handcuffs, but, as Leong assured me, stand-up comedy in Malaysia is “a safe space, where people get a dose of reality”. While still in its infancy, local audiences are flocking to this new breed of entertainment. According to Leong, there are now more than 30 regular comedy shows in KL per month – up from just a few shows each month five years ago. KL draws in local and international performers every week, and the Kuala Lumpur International Comedy Festival, which kicked off in 2015 and attracted top performers from around the world, is set to run again this September. Local comedians say they love Malaysia’s supportive audiences and the excitement of an emerging scene – which also encourages the constant stream of international comics. Each generation of comedians has helped build the scene by supporting new hopefuls, a tradition started by the man recognised as Malaysia’s first stand-up comedian, Harith Iskandar.

The big names…

Up-and-coming comedians Brian Tan and Prakash Daniel recommend watching Kavin Jayaram (known as Kavin Jay), Phoon Chi Ho, Kuah Jenhan, Papi Zak, Andrew Netto, Douglas Lim, Jason Leong (top

Andrew Netto gets the LOLs from the crowd at LOL @ Live House

Don’t miss! KUALA LUMPUR INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL, curated by Harith Iskander, September 2016. Dates and acts to be confirmed – check klinternational comedyfestival.com for updates.

KUALA LUMPUR I UNPLUGGED

style jaffles (toasted sandwiches usually filled with cheese). Crackhouse is tucked away in trendy Taman Tun Dr Ismail, a short taxi ride from the city centre. With high-profile comedians Rizal van Geyzel, Jon Atherton and Kavin Jay at the helm, the club draws in big-name local and international acts. In fact, Canadian Pat Burtscher will perform this month, on March 4 and 5. Crackhouse is open Wednesdays to Saturdays – Friday and Saturday nights usually welcome headline talent.

Need to know! CRACKHOUSE COMEDY CLUB

inset), Jonathan (Jon) Atherton (an honorary Malaysian; he’s Australian) and, of course, themselves. For people who aren’t familiar with the capital or its comedy scene, Tan and Daniel recommend Rizal van Geyzel (p54), who can talk about local material and make it relatable to anyone from any part of the world.

…and even bigger venues

Crackhouse Comedy Club is purpose-made for comedy, with graffiti-covered walls, an inexpensive bar and Australian-

crackhousecomedy.asia 1st Floor, 24A Lorong Rahim Kajal 14, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, +60 17 624 3412; RM15-40

PJ LIVE ARTS pjlivearts.myx Ground Floor, Block F, Jaya One, 72A Jalan Universiti, Petaling Jaya, +60 3 7960 0439

LIVE HOUSE livehouse.my E-G-07, Electric Boulevard, TREC, Lot 434, Jalan Tun Razak, Seksyen 90, +60 12 223 1937

MANGO’S TROPICAL CAFE facebook.com/ mangoscafe.kl 37, 39, 41 Changkat Bukit Bintang, +60 3 2166 6650

PJ Live Arts, a dedicated arts venue, is home to KL’s longest-running weekly open-mic night, One Mic Stand. Hosted by Prakash Daniel, Brian Tan and Keren Bala Devan, One Mic Stand runs every Tuesday and gives newbies and professionals a place (and audience) to try out their material. Tickets are RM15 (S$5). The one-off theme shows – like Hunger Games for Ramadan, June 21 – are worth catching too. Other highly anticipated upcoming shows include Actorlympics (March and May) and Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow (July). Visit facebook.com/1micstand for special-event updates. The New York-style Live House, KL’s new upmarket entertainment complex, has two floors: one for music (Main Room) and one for comedy shows (LOL L!VE). LOL shows include a local comedy act, international comedy act and a band every Thursday to Saturday, from RM30 (S$10). International acts performing this month include Anil Desai from BBC’s Goodness Gracious Me and Australian Bart Freebairn, while locals Andrew Netto and Jason Leong are regulars. Mango’s Tropical Café hosts Time Out Comedy Thursday every month. It’s the oldest and one of the best shows in town, priced at RM25 (S$8).

KUALA LUMPUR I UNPLUGGED

different things. We have one-liners, selfdeprecation, songs – we never know where it’s going to go!

Rizal in action at Crackhouse Comedy Club

Q&A

Rizal van Geyzel Belinda Kerslake meets funnyman Rizal van Geyzel, comedian and co-owner of Crackhouse Comedy Club. How did you get into comedy? In 2001 or thereabouts, there was an open-mic night at a pub in Central Market [Kuala Lumpur]. Most acts were singers, dancers and magicians – and I was coerced by my sister to do a stand-up routine. There was a crowd of seven people and I did about half an hour of dinner-table jokes. I later learnt standup comedy is about being yourself and performing original material.

The next time, there were about 50 people. I did not get a single positive response nor any attention except from Harith Iskander, Malaysia’s pioneer standup comedian. He later took me on as his opening act at a theatre show. My skills improved, but I had a long way to go. I went to the US for college in 2003. When I came back five years later, there were a handful of budding comics – now my peers on the circuit. We started with monthly open-mic nights at Time Out Comedy Thursday then opened our own weekly open-mic night, One Mic Stand.

I chose stand-up as a full-time career in early 2013, then in May 2014 opened Crackhouse.

Kuala Lumpur’s comedy scene has grown rapidly in the past few years – why do you think this is? When times are tough, people need to laugh. Comedy doesn’t try to make sense of the world – it puts the spotlight on nonsense most of us worry too much about, and perhaps some of what we don’t worry about enough.

What’s unique about KL’s comedy scene? The fact that it’s relatively new means people have a lot of leeway to try

Why do you think KL draws in so many well-known international acts? We wouldn’t draw so many international comedians if it weren’t for Jonathan [Atherton, co-owner of Crackhouse], who has about 25 years’ experience in the scene and lots of connections. International comedians who have performed to a Malaysian crowd enjoy it so much that they chat to colleagues back home. We get people saying “[American comedian] Tom Rhodes told me you run a great room, and I just want a holiday break”. They won’t make as much as money as they would at home, but the reason they’re doing it is really for the love of it.

Travel info Jetstar flies up to five times daily from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur. To book, visit JETSTAR.COM

Mention this ad and receive a FREE gift on entry.

The

attraction in town. A glittering, interactive journey into gold.

Discover the fascinating story of Western Australia’s golden heritage at our stunning new Gold Exhibition. A dynamic multimedia extravaganza combines with historic memories and aged artefacts to form the backdrop to a dazzling array of pure gold exhibits. Experience the magic, allure and wonder of gold.

Open 7 days a week. 9am – 5pm. Gold Exhibition. Guided Tours. Shop. Café. 310 Hay Street, East Perth WA 6004 • Telephone 1300 366 520 www.perthmint.com.au/visit • facebook.com/theperthmint • twitter.com/perthmint

THRILLSEEKING 56

ASIA

From near-colliding rollercoasters to the world’s largest cave system, these 10 extreme attractions will bring a hit of adrenaline to your holiday – and aren’t for the faint-hearted! WORDS ALESSANDRA BERGAMIN

sia is sprinkled with white sand beaches, bordered by broad mountains, sliced by curving rice terraces and anchored by some of the world’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. The flip side of this is a fast-paced, heart-racing region that touts a combination of epic natural phenomena, feats of engineering and at times, attractions that border on the downright weird. And, in September last year, China added a new attraction to the list: a 300m-long, glass-bottomed bridge in Hunan province, aptly named Brave Men’s Bridge. So whether it’s Mother Nature creating killer waves, or a Guinness World Record bungee jump – forgo the retail therapy, rethink your spa booking and throw caution to the wind.

EXTREME I ATTRACTIONS

Macau Tower, China

At 338m high, the Macau Tower is the city’s soaring, central landmark. Inspired by the Skytower in Auckland, New Zealand, the Macau Tower opened in 2001 with more than 1,300 steps, four high-speed panoramic elevators and an outdoor observation deck. Adventurers can make a beeline for the AJ Hackett rides, which include the Guinness World Record Bungy Jump (at 233m high, it’s the highest commercial jump in the world); the Skywalk, a nail-biting stroll around the outer perimeter of the tower (without a handrail); Skyjump, a controlled descent from the bungee platform but without the free fall and rebound; and the spectacular Tower Climb, where you’ll conquer Macau’s highest summit. For anyone feeling less daring, soak up the views outside on the Adventure Deck while others take the plunge; or stroll the glass floor of the indoor Observation Lounge. Largo da Torre de Macau, Macau; macautower.com.mo; ajhackett.com/macau

FUN FACT: If you do head to the observation deck, hope for a clear day; you’ll be able to see as far as China’s Pearl River Delta and Hong Kong.

EXTREME I ATTRACTIONS

The Bono Tidal Bore

Only recently discovered by international surfers, the Bono Tidal Bore is an estuarine wave system on Indonesia’s Kampar River where long-distance barrels rival some of Indonesia’s hottest surf spots. In 2013, UK surfer Steve King broke his own Guinness World Record by riding a 20.65km wave in one hour and four minutes along the Bono Tidal Bore. The Kampar River meanders from the Bukit Barisan mountain range into the Riau province before pouring out into the Malacca Strait. At high tide, high waves from the sea flow in and meet the downstream current of the Kampar and, aided by the river’s funnel shape, the tidal bore is created. Some of the best sites to hit the surf include the village of Teluk Meranti, Tanjung Sebayang and Tanjung Pungai. Just watch out for crocs... Kampar River, Riau Province (close to Pekanbaru)

FUN FACT: Some locals believe the tidal bore is the incarnation of the ‘Seven Ghosts’ (evil spirits).

Iya Valley Vine Bridges

Iya Valley on the island of Shikoku is home to three vine bridges. Originally, Iya Kazurabashi and the pair of bridges, Oku-Iya Kazurabashi, were made from wisteria vines woven together and supplemented by planks

of wood eight to 12 inches apart. Today, the bridges are reinforced with wire and handrails but still provide plenty of thrills: the most popular of the bridges, Iya Kazurabashi, is around 14m high and 45m long, and the bridges all swing precariously in the wind (eeek!). While the bridges were most likely built in the 12th century, with 13 originally dotting the island, their origins are unclear. Some believe they were created by spiritual figure Kōbō-Daishi, founder of Shingon Buddhism, while others believe the bridges were built by Heike refugees who were fleeing from the Genji clan: their design meant they could be easily cut down when escaping enemies.

FUN FACT: Oku-Iya Kazurabashi is a ‘couples’ bridge: the larger of the two, at 44m long is called Otto no Hashi or ‘Husband Bridge’; while the smaller and slightly lower bridge, at 22m long, is Tsuma no Hashi or ‘Wife Bridge’.

Be sure to watch out for crocs if you’re braving the tidal bore...

PHOTOS JNTO/TOURISM SHIKOKU, ALAMY

Brace yourself! Two tracks launch from their stations at high speed and feature nearcollisions...

Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden

About 100km south-east of Bangkok, Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden (sometimes called the Thailand Hell Horror Park) is a surreal, graphic version of Buddhist hell, also known as Naraka. Rather than an afterlife of eternal damnation, Buddhists believe sinners are punished per sin in the afterworld. According to the teachings of the Trai Phum Phra Ruang, when a Buddhist dies, their good and bad deeds are weighed up by four celestial beings. If the bad outweigh the good, that person is sent to specific hells related to each of their sins. As depicted in the park, the (gruesome) punishments include starvation, boiling, being devoured by dogs and reincarnation for specific crimes or moral misconducts (stealing an aquatic animal will earn you the head of a fish). This is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Sai 2, Soi 19, Saen Suk, near Bang Saen Beach, Thailand FUN FACT: For another hellish experience, visit the Ten Parks of Hell at Singapore’s Haw Par Villa.

Battlestar Galactica Roller Coaster

Based on the sci-fi television show Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon, the world’s tallest duelling roller coaster is a thrill not to be missed. Located at Singapore’s Universal Studios, the roller coaster operates two tracks at a time: a blue inverted track and a red traditional track, meaning you can pick your poison. Rather than using a traditional chain lift, the two tracks launch from their stations at high speed and feature several (well-planned) near-collisions that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Luckily, you’re locked in place.

FUN FACT: Wuhan, China is home to Asia’s other duelling roller coaster – the Dauling Dragon – a wooden, racing roller coaster with near-head-on collisions and weaving tracks.

EXTREME I ATTRACTIONS

Brave Men’s Bridge

Slung between two sheer cliff faces, suspended nearly 180m in the air and more than 300m long, Hunan province’s recently opened Haohan Qiao (or Brave Men’s Bridge) is certainly for the courageous. Located in Shiniuzhai National Geopark, the bridge was originally made from wood until engineers began experimenting with glass in 2014. It’s now made from a double layer of glass – 25 times stronger than normal – and is supported by a steel frame. The bridge is said to withstand high winds, earthquakes, frost and the weight of 800 visitors at a time. Want more adventure? An even more nervejangling, 430m-long glass bridge spanning the 400m-deep Grand Canyon at Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (also in Hunan) will open later this year.

FUN FACT: Hunan’s geological formations are said to have inspired the scenery in the film Avatar.

Nakagin Capsule Tower, Tokyo

For around S$37 on Airbnb, nonclaustrophobes can buy themselves some time in a capsule at Nakagin Capsule Tower. In the late 60s and early 70s, the building’s creator, Kisho Kurokawa, proposed future societies would grow faster than ever before and housing would need to be agile and impermanent. These capsule apartments would allow residents to detach and move their homes as needed. Kurokawa’s vision was built in 1972 and is a well known icon of Japan’s Metabolist architectural movement. Consisting of two interconnected towers of 13 storeys and 11 storeys high, Nakagin Capsule Tower houses

The carts are completely open and built without guardrails...”

Sky Cycle, Okayama

If you’re looking for breathtaking views, Japan’s Sky Cycle is both a terrifying and energetic way to get some height. Located at the Brazilian-themed Washuzan Highland Amusement Park in Okayama city, Sky Cycle is a pedal-powered ‘roller coaster’ that requires you to work for your fun. Tandem bikes complete with baskets and brakes will guide you around the elevated track but beware: the carts are completely open and built without guardrails. Thankfully, a seatbelt will keep you in place. Throughout the ride you’ll have spectacular views of the Great Seto Bridge – a structure that spans more than 13km over Japan’s inland sea and connects the islands of Honshu and Shikoku.

FUN FACT: As a Brazilian-themed theme park, you can’t miss Washuzan Highland’s Samba stage. But if you’re looking for another death-defying ride, head to the standing roller coaster!

140 concrete capsules at about 10 square metres each. Designed for a single person (cashed up bachelors were the target market) each capsule is equipped with a small kitchen and a bathroom similar to those on a cruise ship. The pods were designed to be replaced every 25 years, but have since fallen into disrepair. A few residents remain, but the building’s future is uncertain.

FUN FACT: Nakagin Capsule Tower was featured in the 2013 film, The Wolverine, as a Japanese ‘love hotel’.

9 Sơn Đoòng Cave

Only recently explored by the British Cave Research Association and opened to the public in 2013, Sơn Đoòng Cave has earned the crown of the world’s largest cave system – a title previously held by Malaysia’s Deer Cave. Located in the heart of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in the Quang Binh province of Central Vietnam, the cave is over 200m wide and 150m high at certain points, and roughly nine kilometres long. Scientists believe it was created two to five million years ago by limestone corrosion, resulting in an environment of stalagmites, stalactites, natural skylights and misty cloud. So far, fewer people have been inside the cave than have stood on Mount Everest – how’s that for an adventure? Son Trach, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh province (close to Dong Hoi), Vietnam; sondoongcave.org

FUN FACT: It’s said a 747 aircraft could fly through Sơn Đoòng’s largest cavern.

Yehliu Geopark

About 90 minutes drive from Taipei and stretching some 1,700m out to sea from the town of Wanli is Yehliu Geopark. Formed when geological forces pushed Datun Mountain out of the sea, the cape is geologically considered part of the Daliao Miocene Formation. Thanks to this action, it is dotted with hoodoo stones – tall, thin spires of rock – many of which have been given imaginative names based on their shape. A bulbous-shaped rock with honeycomb-like mottling has been named ‘Queen’s Head’ and is both an iconic Taiwanese image and a Wanli emblem. Other formations include the Fairy Shoe, the Beehive and Mushroom Rocks. This is Mother Nature at her most beautiful and extreme.

FUN FACT: In 2013, Yehliu was named the “most beautiful landscape in Taiwan” by news channel Focus Taiwan.

This page To the delight of his ‘rides’, a rickshaw puller picks up the pace in one of Asakusa’s back lanes Opposite page top to bottom Curious sightseers reach up to stroke the underside of Kaminarimon Gate’s giant chochin lantern; The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center resembles traditional wooden machiya townhouses stacked atop one another

photos mark parren taylor

Asakusa – Tokyo’s historic entertainment district – continues to draw crowds with its engaging mix of delicious eats and yesteryear charm

Tokyo tales

TOKYO I ASAKUSA

Left For their pre-wedding photographs, a couple – dressed in traditional shinto wedding attire – take a rickshaw ride near the iconic Senso-ji Temple Middle Every trading day for 102 years, Namiki Yabu Soba’s chefs have hand-made the restaurant’s signature soba noodles Right A woman snaps Nakamise Arcade – the bustling parade of traditional shops and food stalls that has served pilgrims and sightseers to Senso-ji Temple since the 17th century

Tokyo SkyTree the second tallest structure in the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; towers over the bustling Asakusa district from its position across the Sumida River

The elegantly simple zaru soba (chilled noodles with tsuyu dipping sauce) is the most requested dish at ever-popular restaurant Namiki Yabu Soba

TOKYO I ASAKUSA

Explore Explore I INTERVIEW I BIRDS EYE Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the second half of the vibrant and diverse Hong Kong Arts Festival. Until March 20, p12.

in f light NEWS 72 I STAR JOURNEYS 75 I MAPS 78

Inflight I BRAIN TEASERS

QUICK QUIZ Get set to test your travel knowledge with this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quiz 1. Which two colours feature on Indonesiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national flag?

8. True or False: Due to land reclamation, Singapore is now 25% larger than at the time of its independence.

2. The Batu Caves are a popular tourist attraction in which country?

9. The fabric design batik originated in what country?

3. In what film does Russell Crowe play an investment banker who inherits a vineyard?

10. Set in Vietnam, the musical Miss Saigon is based on which Puccini opera?

4. What country has the largest number of active volcanoes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; more than 150! â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in the world?

11. Two of what animals appear on the label of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chang beer?

5. What was the first in the popular series of Road toâ&#x20AC;Ś movies starring Bob Hope and Bing Crosby? 6. The spicy Malaysian dish mee goreng is primarily made with fried: A) Rice B) Noodles C) Grasshoppers

12. Beginning with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, what is New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest wine-growing region? 13. What is the official currency unit of Malaysia?

14. The 2011 film The Hangover Part II is set in what country? 15. What colour is the middle stripe on Myanmarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national flag?

7. In what country did the 2015 APEC summit take place?

16. Where was Australian Labor senator Penny Wong born?

CODEWORD & SUDOKU

SOLUTIONS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; see p83

EASY

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Now flying Manila – Japan

Panda-mania hits Manila!

Jetta visits Manila Jetta, Jetstar Japan’s friendly red panda mascot, greeted customers at the recent PTAA Travel Tour Expo at the SMX Convention Centre in Manila, and was an instant hit! Jetta was busy with special appearances and rarely stopped for a breather, while over at the Jetstar booth large crowds kept us busy; we even took home the ‘best booth’ award – thanks for your support!

FANCY #SGWEEKENDS IN SINGAPORE?

Sawasdeekrap Thailand! We’d love for you to experience the new National Gallery and the unique Mod-Sin cuisine, so we’re giving away two pairs of Bangkok – Singapore return tickets to winners with the best selfie posts! The contest runs from March 11 – 20, see jetstar.com or follow our social media for more details. Chokh di!

The first Jetstar flight from Manila to Tokyo takes off March 16, followed by Manila to Nagoya on April 2. If you’ve scored one of our super low one-way launch fares of PHP1998, well done and enjoy Nippon to the fullest!

New year, new look We hope you like the newlook Jetstar Asia magazine! Now featuring larger and more striking images, with equally engaging content, the magazine aims to deliver the latest travel and destination information, while inspiring you to travel more. Read something you really enjoyed? Think we can improve further? We’d love to hear from you.

#NumpangBeken Because you can Selamat Siang Indonesia, we have something special in store for you this month! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and three lucky winners will walk away with a pair of Jetstar Asia flights to the destination of your choice.

VISIT US AND SAY HELLO ON SOCIAL MEDIA! facebook.com/JetstarAsiaAirways @jetstarasia @Jetstar_Asia

151mmw x 104mmH

Oxford Hotel is a favourite choice among tourists and business travelers. Simply because it is located in the heart of the city, right within the central business district and close to major tourist attractions This charming boutique hotel was recently refurbished to sports a vibrant colourful and modern look, reflecting Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s steady development as the first -choice holiday destination! What remains un-changed is its friendly, personalized service which makes guests feel right at home.

More legroom to be yourself. Because you can. Enjoy extra legroom* on our first and emergency row seats for a more comfortable flight! Rows 1, 12 and 13 at SGD32 or equivalent per seat.

*Please approach our cabin crew should you wish to upgrade your seat. Jetstar Asia Airways Pte Ltd BRN:200403570D.

Inflight I STAR JOURNEYS WINNERS

#StarJourneys Taken some great snaps during your recent Jetstar holiday? Post them on social media, tag us at #StarJourneys, @jetstarasia (Instagram) or @Jetstar_Asia (Twitter) or @Jetstar Asia (Facebook), include a simple caption – and if we feature your picture you will win a S$100 Jetstar voucher! 1. Daniel Goldberg Singapore “The waterfall towers over 30 metres and provided welcome relief from the sweltering, humid air.” 2. Sharon de la Paz Siem Reap “We decided to go further out and explore other temples such as Banteay Srey and Preah Khan.” 3. Trissie Liew Osaka “There were so many tachinomiya (standing bars) in the Tenma area that are perfect for meeting the locals! I made lots of local friends.” 4. Giovanna Ko Phu Quoc “I woke up before sunrise, wore my running shoes and jogged to Sao beach.”

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about #StarJourneys SHARE YOUR GREAT TRAVEL SNAPS WITH US AND STAND TO WIN S$100 JETSTAR VOUCHERS! Simply tag @jetstarasia (Instagram), @Jetstar_Asia (Twitter) or @Jetstar Asia (Facebook) and include #StarJourneys in your photo caption. If your picture is featured in the magazine, you’ll win a S$100 Jetstar voucher that can be redeemed on Jetstar Asia, Jetstar Pacific and Jetstar Airways flights. We reserve the right to repost these photos on Jetstar Asia’s social media accounts.

Inflight I FLYING START UPDATE

INDONESIA I NDI

Let there be light

Congratulations to Nusantara Development Initiatives, the very worthy recipient of Jetstar’s Flying Start grant

How Jetstar’s Flying Start grant will help

he old Chinese proverb “... teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime” is alive and well in some of the most rural parts of Indonesia, thanks to Nusantara Development Initiatives (NDI). The Singaporebased organisation aims to end energy poverty and empower women by training and equipping Ibu Rumah Terang, or “Mothers of Light”, with the skills they need to be solar lamp entrepreneurs and earn a meaningful income. Fairoz Ahmad, executive director and co-founder of NDI, says while it's easy for most of us to flick a switch for a light to come on,

the opposite is true for millions of Indonesians. “About one in four Indonesians do not have access to a clean and stable light source,” says Ahmad. “Without light, things that we take for granted do not exist. I spent some time in a village where electricity shuts down before 10pm. The kind of darkness... makes you feel powerless.” Following a volunteer trip to Aceh posttsunami, Ahmad was struck at the large influx of foreign aid – canned food and the like – that went unused. Ahmad interviewed local women who said what they needed were meaningful jobs, not more aid. So,

the Mothers of Light programme was born. One participant from Riau, 60-year-old Ibu, didn’t finish primary school and barely knew how to write but went on to sell 70 lamps within six months, the highest sales figure among her peers. Today in the Mothers of Light programme, after a two-week training programme, the women are trained on how to introduce solar lamps to their community, sales and marketing techniques. The Mothers of Light graduates are then armed with the tools they need to build a solid business – a gift that keeps on giving long after the program is over.

“We like that Jetstar is sensitive to the hidden costs of doing good (in our case, travelling costs) and how something like ‘taking a plane’ carries with it so much more meaning than just travelling from Point A to Point B,” says Fairoz Ahmad, executive director and co-founder of NDI. “We are planning to conduct training in several villages in Indonesia over a six-month period, beginning this month. In each village, we will conduct two-week entrepreneurship training, and upon graduation, the women will each receive a business-in-a-bag, a kind of start-up kit, with everything they need to start their own business.”

Inflight I INTERVIEW

Jetstar pilot Jeffrey Pang and his family What inspired you to become a pilot? My friends and I were inspired by the movie Top Gun. We decided to apply for a pilot position in the RSAF. Funnily, I was the only one who made it through the selection and training process.

Tell us about your experience judging on the Flying Start Panel

A day in the life

Ever wondered what it would be like to be a Jetstar pilot? We meet Jeffrey Pang and talk airports, holiday spots and Top Gun

It’s inspiring to see many people, especially the younger generation, sacrificing their time, money and energy to improve the lives of the less fortunate around us. We can all play a part in making our world a better place. I’m glad Jetstar is playing a part in doing so.

What’s your advice for anyone who wants to become a Jetstar Asia pilot?

ommercial pilot Jeffrey Pang has been flying with Jetstar Asia since 2009. Before joining Jetstar, he spent 18 years with the Republic of Singapore Airforce. Jeffrey has since become a judge on Jetstar’s Flying Start panel, which he says has been an enriching and humbling experience. (Jetstar’s Flying Start grants help not-forprofit community groups.) We find out what it’s like to be one of the people who gets our planes into the air...

half before the flight departs. The OCC is where pilots conduct flight planning before every flight. Here, my First Officer and I check the forecast weather at the departure, arrival and alternate airports, the status of the airport facilities, the status of the aircraft and the Computed Flight Plan. Then we have to determine the amount of fuel we require for the flight before walking to the aircraft. I normally eat a small meal before flights in order to stay alert. For longer flights, I may have my meals onboard the aircraft.

What’s a typical day at work for you?

What are the highlights of your job?

As a commercial pilot, my daily schedule is dependent on my flight schedule. Normally, I report at the Operations Control Centre (OCC) about an hour and a

The highlight of my job is seeing the smiles on our customers’ faces, whether it’s arriving at their holiday destination or returning home. It gives me great satisfaction!

Pursue your dreams. Be a selfmotivator, work hard and stay positive. Pilot training can be challenging at times.

Where do you love to fly to? Easy! Osaka because I love Japanese food!

Where’s your top spot for a holiday? Bali! Because it has something for everyone in my family. My children love the beach and the water park. My wife loves the food and the shopping. I love the scenery and the friendly Balinese people.

And your favourite airport? Singapore Changi Airport is the best in the world! The amenities and facilities are excellent, but more importantly, every time I land at Changi, I am returning home to my family and friends.

Inflight I WHERE WE FLY

INTERNATIONAL Operated by Jetstar Airways Operated by Jetstar Asia Operated by Jetstar PaciďŹ c Operated by Jetstar Japan

Tokyo (Narita) Fukuoka

Guiyang

Hangzhou Wuhan

Shantou Hong kong Hanoi Macau Yangon Haikou Da Nang Siem Reap Bangkok Phnom Penh

Nagoya (Chubu)

Osaka (Kansai)

Flights are operated by Jetstar Airways and commence 22 March, subject to government and regulatory approval

Flights are operated by Jetstar Japan and commence 15 March (Narita-Manila), 1 April (Nagoya-Manila) and 4 April (Osaka-Manila), subject to regulatory approval

Taipei Hawaii (Honolulu)

Manila

Ho Chi Minh City

Phuket Penang Medan

Kuala Lumpur

Pekanbaru

Singapore

Palembang Jakarta Surabaya Bali (Denpasar)

Darwin Fiji (Nadi)

Cairns Townsville

Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

Brisbane Gold Coast Perth Adelaide

Sydney Melbourne (Tullamarine)

Auckland Wellington Christchurch

Queenstown

DOMESTIC VIETNAM

DOMESTIC JAPAN

Hanoi

Sapporo

Hai Phong Thanh Hoa Vinh Dong Hoi Hue Da Nang Chu Lai Pleiku Quy Nhon

Tokyo (Narita) Nagoya (Chubu) Matsuyama Osaka (Kansai) Fukuoka Takamatsu Oita Kumamoto

Tuy Hoa Buon Ma Thuot

Kagoshima

Nha Trang Da Lat

Ho Chi Minh City

Phu Quoc

Okinawa

Operated by Jetstar PaciďŹ c

Operated by Jetstar Japan

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Auckland New Plymouth Nelson

Darwin

Cairns Townsville Hamilton Island Whitsunday Coast Mackay

Queenstown

Napier Palmerston North Wellington Christchurch Dunedin

Operated by Jetstar Airways Operated by Eastern Australia Airlines for Jetstar Airways

Sunshine Coast

Ayers Rock (Uluru)

Brisbane

Gold Coast

Ballina Byron Perth

Newcastle

Sydney

Adelaide Melbourne (Avalon)

Melbourne (Tullamarine)

Auckland

Operated by Jetstar Airways Flights are operated by Jetstar Airways and commence 27 March (Melbourne AvalonAdelaide) and 28 March (Melbourne Avalon-Hobart)

Wellington Christchurch

Launceston Hobart

Queenstown

Inflight I WHEN WE FLY

Jetstar Asia, together with Jetstar, operates more than 600 ﬂights per week throughout Asia. Schedule is valid to 26 March 2016.

SINGAPORE – PHNOM PENH / PHNOM PENH – SINGAPORE 2 hours (GMT+7)

JETSTAR ASIA

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Arrival

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